Visiting Coron
Coron is a town located on the island of Busuanga in the northern part of the Philippines, within the province of Palawan. It shares its name with a neighboring island managed by the Tagbanua tribe, who secured legal stewardship of the land in 1998. You reach the island of Coron via an island hopping tour, typically conducted on a traditional Philippine boat called a bangka. With its mix of inland turquoise lakes, jagged karst cliffs, and dense coral reefs, the island is widely considered one of the most scenic spots in the archipelago.
Exploring the island of Coron
The island of Coron is packed with sites to explore, starting with the striking inland lakes. Highlights include the shifting color palette of the Green Lagoon, the hypnotic turquoise water of the Twin Lagoons, and Kayangan Lake, a postcard-perfect basin framed by dramatic limestone peaks. Barracuda Lake is a geological oddity, featuring a mix of fresh and saltwater layers. The transition zones, or thermoclines, create a unique experience where water temperatures climb as you descend, reaching up to 38°C (100°F) at the bottom while the surface stays at a comfortable 28°C (82°F).
The surrounding waters are ideal for diving and snorkeling, especially around Siete Pescados, a collection of seven islets known for particularly dense coral formations. If you base yourself in the town of Coron, you can also head out to dive the wrecks of Japanese ships sunk during World War II, such as the Skeleton Wreck.
Immersing yourself in local life
Coron maintains a distinctly Filipino character, and there is plenty to do in and around town. Start with a hike to the summit of Mount Tapyas. After climbing the roughly 700 steps, you are rewarded with a panoramic view of the bay and the surrounding islands. For a local experience, head to the Concepcion Falls to cool off, or visit the Maquinit hot springs, a favorite spot for local families to soak. To see a different side of the island, make your way to Kingfisher Park. A nighttime kayak trip through the mangroves here is a must, as you have a good chance of spotting fireflies in the trees.
When to go
The best time to visit the Philippines is between January and April, which marks the dry season and offers the lowest chance of encountering heavy rain.
Getting there
You have a few ways to reach Coron. Direct flights connect Manila to the island of Busuanga. From the airport, you will need to arrange a transfer to Coron town, which you can do by tricycle, jeepney, or rental scooter. Alternatively, you can take a ferry to Coron from Manila or, for a much shorter trip, from the town of El Nido.
It is an island near Palawan in the north of the Philippines.
Less well known than El Nido, and therefore less touristy.
For me, it is one of the best islands I have visited.
The people are kind, and there is no tourist fever yet.
For diving lovers, it is a little paradise: coral, Japanese shipwrecks...
The town of Coron is small but typical. Perfect for relaxing.
There is Mount Tapyas, and the sunrise from the top is exceptional.